Iraq – A journey into the cradle of civilisation

After years of political turmoil and military crisis, Iraq is slowly rising from the ashes. The country is now open to tourists and ready to show the world its history and cultural heritage.

Iraq is considered the birthplace of many of the oldest civilisations on Earth, including the Babylonians and Assyrians. It has five UNESCO World Heritage Sites and tens of thousands of archaeological sites scattered across the country.

Iraq has a number of stunning archaeological sites, including the ruins of Babylon, the ancient capital of Mesopotamia, and Ukhaidir Castle, one of the best-preserved Islamic buildings in the world.

Iraqi cities also have a lively market spirit, where tourists can discover local life and buy traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Iraqi cuisine is delicious and full of flavours, and tourists can enjoy traditional dishes such as pilaf, kebabs and hummus.

Itinerary

Day 1 / 17.11./ Flight from Finland to Baghdad in the Middle East
At 17:30 we meet at Helsinki-Vantaa airport. Flight from Helsinki to Istanbul at 19:00-23:55.
A long time ago, this city was called Madinat al Salam, the City of Peace. The history of the area surrounding the city dates back to 3000 BC and was inhabited by numerous peoples such as the Arcadians, Babylonians, Sumerians and Assyrians.

Day 2 / 18.11./ Baghdad
Onward connection to the Iraqi capital Baghdad from 02:05-05:15.
We arrive at Baghdad International Airport. After border formalities, we will meet with the group and transfer to the hotel for early check-in.

At around 12.00 we start our sightseeing tour of the Iraqi capital. We start with a visit to the Iraqi National Museum, which houses an incredible collection of artefacts that tell the story of the ancient civilisations of Mesopotamia. After the museum visit, we head to the Al-Shaheed Monument, an impressive architectural landmark that pays tribute to Iraq’s fallen heroes. The monument was originally dedicated to Iraqi soldiers who died in the Iran-Iraq war and has since become a day of remembrance for all Iraqi martyrs.
At the end of the day, we walk along Al-Mutanabbi Street. Named after the classical Iraqi poet al-Mutanabbi from the 1000’s, the street has been called the heart and soul of Baghdad’s literate and intellectual community.
Baghdad’s vibrant cultural centre is renowned for its bookshops, historic cafes and artistic spirit – a perfect introduction to the soul of Iraq. Meals: (A,L,I)
Accommodation at Burj Al Jawad Hotel, Al Kadmiyah, Baghdad.

Day 3 / 19.11./ Baghdad
We begin our day with a visit to Taq Kasraan (Arch of Ctesiphon), the awe-inspiring remains of the largest single arch in the ancient world, representing the splendour of the Persian Empire in Sasanian times.
We continue to Liberation Square (Tahrir Square), a symbol of modern Baghdad’s history and activism. We next visit Firdos Square, known as the site where Saddam Hussein’s statue was toppled in 2003, marking a pivotal moment in Iraqi history.
To end the day, we visit the holy Kadhimiya district, home to the beautiful Al-Kadhimain shrine, a place of spiritual significance and architectural splendour. Meals: (A,L,I)
Accommodation at Burj Al Jawad Hotel, Al Kadmiyah, Baghdad.

Day 4 /20 Nov / Baghdad-Babylon ( 115 km, about 2 hours), Babylon-Karbala (62 km, about 1.30 hours)
We start our day by travelling from Baghdad to the ancient city of Babylon, where we explore the legendary ruins of one of history’s greatest civilisations, including the magnificent Ishtar.

Arguably one of the most famous sites in Iraq is Babylon, also known as the “gateway of the gods”. Babylon was once one of the largest cities in the world. The city was founded by the Amorite tribe. They established their own urban centres in Mesopotamia, and the centre remains a major modern ancient wonder.
The gate and the remains of Nebuchadnezzar’s palace. From Babylon we continue our journey to Karbala, a city with profound spiritual significance. Here we visit the holy shrines of Imam Hussein and Abbas ibn Ali, revered by millions worldwide. This day offers us a perfect blend of history and spirituality, connecting us to Iraq’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Meals: (A,L,I)
Accommodation at Rotana al Rayha Hotel, Karbala.

Day 5 / 21.11./ Karbala – Najaf ( 80 km, about 2 hours)
We start our day by visiting the impressive Ukhaider Fortress, a stunning example of early Islamic architecture with its fortified walls and intricate design.
We then travel to the holy city of Najaf. The city has a long history dating back to ancient times, and archaeological evidence suggests that it has been inhabited for over 6,000 years.
In the city, we will visit the Valley of Peace Cemetery (Wadi Al-Salam), the largest cemetery in the world, with immense spiritual and historical significance. To end the day, we will visit the prestigious Imam Ali Shrine, a magnificent golden-domed shrine and one of the holiest sites in Islam. This day combines history, culture and spirituality in an unforgettable experience. Meals:(A,L,I)
Accommodation at Qasr Al-Dur Hotel, Najaf.

Day 6 / 22.11./ Najaf – Nasiriyah – Marshes ( 260 km, about 3.5 hours)
We depart Najaf and head south to the ancient city of Ur, where we visit the iconic Ur Ziggurat, a magnificent testimony to the ingenuity of Mesopotamian civilisation and an important part of human history.
From Uri, our journey continues to the Mesopotamian Marshlands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is celebrated for its unique ecosystem and cultural heritage. We will explore the serenity of the waterways, meet the Marsh Arab communities and experience the harmony of nature and tradition in this breathtaking region. Meals: (A,L,I)
Accommodation at Al-Zaitoo Hotel, Naisiriyah.

Day 7 / 23.11./ Marshes – Basra (202 km, about 2.5 hours)
We start our day with a visit to the enchanting Shanasheel Al-Basraan, historic houses adorned with intricately carved wooden balconies that showcase the architectural elegance of old Basra. We then embark on a leisurely boat trip along the Shatt Al-Arab, where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers merge. We enjoy picturesque views of the Basra waterfront, lush date palm groves and vibrant river life.
A boat trip offers the perfect blend of history and natural beauty to complete your experience in this fascinating city.
Meals: (A,L,I)
Accommodation at the Castle Hotel, Basra.

Day 8 /24 Nov / Basra
We start the day leisurely with a traditional Iraqi coffee and gaimar breakfast at a local restaurant and sample the rich flavours of southern Iraq.
We spend the rest of the day relaxing along the Corniche, a scenic riverside walk along the Shatt Al-Arab, where we can admire the peaceful views and soak up the local atmosphere. After a peaceful evening, we prepare to head home the following morning, ending our journey with fond memories of Iraq’s beauty and hospitality. Meals: (A,L,I)
Accommodation at the Castle Hotel, Basra.

Day 9 /25.11./ Flight home
At 04.30 a.m. transfer to the airport. Flight Basra-Istanbul from 07:45 to 11:30. Onward connection to Helsinki 15:15-18:05.

Good to know

In the past, obtaining an Iraqi visa was almost impossible (and not recommended). But times have changed! As part of the country’s plan to rebuild culturally and economically after years of conflict, Iraq has introduced visas on arrival from the UK, the European Union, the US, China, Russia, Lebanon, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
EU citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Baghdad airport, the visa costs USD 85.

Despite its insecure past, Iraq today enjoys unparalleled stability. There is a strong focus on improving tourism and reducing terrorism and violence, and the government is investing in protecting foreigners and locals. We believe that Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan are safe for tourism, but we still observe all possible security warnings. We always recommend checking with the authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before deciding to travel.

The currency of Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan is the Iraqi dinar. The country is still largely a cash society, as card-based technology was only recently introduced. We recommend exchanging new, crisp USD notes. Money changers are very easy to find, and we will stop by to help you exchange notes for Iraqi dinars.

Although there are a few ATMs in major cities in Iraq, they are often difficult to reach and may not work with your international bank card. In addition, money changers often offer slightly better exchange rates. It is advisable to take cash with you on your visit to Iraq.

Although Iraq is a predominantly Muslim country, it is home to a wide range of ethnic and religious groups, including Christians, Kurdish Muslims and Yazidis. Iraq is home to both Sunni Muslims and Shia Muslims, which in the past has caused considerable polarisation. Today you will find a range of different religious practices and levels of religiosity. In Shia holy cities such as Karbala and Najaf, people tend to be more conservative, while areas such as Iraqi Kurdistan are more liberal. Overall, however, Iraq remains more conservative than many Western countries.

Iraqis’ conservatism is most evident in the way they dress. Women and men should cover their knees and shoulders. Women are allowed to wear t-shirts or tighter trousers in most cities and there is no need to cover their hair in public. However, in the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, an Islamic abaya and full hijab are required. YPT helps female travellers to purchase these items before entering these cities.
Alcohol can be purchased in liquor shops and bars in Iraqi Kurdistan and in major Iraqi cities such as Baghdad. However, alcohol is not allowed inside the city walls of Karbala and Najaf.

Iraq has both Western-style toilets and squat toilets, and toilet paper and hand towels are a good idea, especially on long journeys.

Iraqis are famous for their hospitality. It is not uncommon for strangers to invite each other to their homes for dinner or tea every day. Iraqis are usually very excited to see foreigners exploring their country, and you’ll probably even be asked to take photos with locals to share with their families and friends. Iraqis may also ask for your phone number and they may be in frequent contact with you.

It is important to note that many Iraqi women are very conservative and may be hesitant to interact with men outside their families. However, female travellers are often very warmly welcomed by Iraqi men and women.

In Iraq, marriage is a very important part of a person’s life, so it is very likely that you will be asked if you are married; even complete strangers may ask this. If you are unmarried, many men and women may suggest that you get married, even to a member of their family. You can always laugh it off, or you can also announce that you are married to avoid unwanted proposals.

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Tour leader